The Northern Territory’s Red Centre has been recognised in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027, with its immersive art experiences named among the publication’s 25 standout experiences for the year ahead.
The Red Centre was the only Australian inclusion on the global experiences list, which highlights opportunities for travellers to connect with art, culture, Country and creativity across Central Australia.
Experiences featured include Parrtjima in Alice Springs, Iltja Ntjarra (Many Hands) Art Centre, the Wintjiri Wiṟu drone show at Uluṟu and Sunrise Journeys, which projects art and storytelling across the desert landscape at dawn.
Also included are small group outdoor watercolour classes with Art Tours of Australia in Tjoritja (West MacDonnell Ranges), Bruce Munro’s Field of Light at Uluṟu and Light Towers at Kings Canyon.
Anna Dakin, Art Tours Australia Owner, said the recognition reflected the role art plays in helping visitors engage more deeply with Central Australia.
“Art is such an important part of this region – it’s a way of connecting visitors with Country, culture, stories and the incredible creativity of Aboriginal artists,” Ms Dakin said.
Suzana Bishop, Tourism and Events NT CEO, said the accolade created an opportunity for the tourism industry to build more cultural and creative experiences into Red Centre itineraries and encourage longer stays.
The recognition follows Desert Mob in Alice Springs earlier this month, further highlighting the region’s connection to Aboriginal art and contemporary creativity.
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027 features 25 destinations and 25 experiences selected by its global travel experts.
